LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Belleville, NJ
Val Ventura is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University and an MA in Clinical Psychology from William Paterson University. Val has an eclectic training background that allows her to create a person centered and goal-oriented treatment plan and adapt her therapeutic approach to fit the unique identity and needs of her patients to help them not only heal but thrive. Val has a history of working with children, adults, and families from all backgrounds.
Val Ventura is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University and an MA in Clinical Psychology from William Paterson University. Val has an eclectic training background that allows her to create a person centered and goal-oriented treatment plan and adapt her therapeutic approach to fit the unique identity and needs of her patients to help them not only heal but thrive. Val has a history of working with children, adults, and families from all backgrounds.
Amina Ellrott is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is board certified and has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Montclair State University with a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Amina also has a masters degree in School Psychology from Rowan University. Amina believes that the counselor-client relationship is the cornerstone to treatment success. She takes the time to learn about clients from each of their unique experiences with the understanding that it is critical to recognize how their identities have shaped the way they see the world.
Amina Ellrott is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is board certified and has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Montclair State University with a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Amina also has a masters degree in School Psychology from Rowan University. Amina believes that the counselor-client relationship is the cornerstone to treatment success. She takes the time to learn about clients from each of their unique experiences with the understanding that it is critical to recognize how their identities have shaped the way they see the world.
Education and experience: I received my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from William Paterson University. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor, as well as a National Certified Counselor. My experience has allowed me to work with diverse populations of various ages with different issues. These include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, parenting, sexual abuse, and assertiveness. My therapeutic treatment approaches include Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness and Play Therapy in individual and group settings.
Education and experience: I received my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from William Paterson University. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor, as well as a National Certified Counselor. My experience has allowed me to work with diverse populations of various ages with different issues. These include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, parenting, sexual abuse, and assertiveness. My therapeutic treatment approaches include Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness and Play Therapy in individual and group settings.
Kardelen Dogan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2021. She earned a Master's degree in Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology from University College London, UK, where she delved into the intricate facets of psychological development and psychoanalytic theories. Following her studies in the UK, she pursued further academic and practical expertise by completing a program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Houston Victoria, Texas.
Kardelen Dogan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2021. She earned a Master's degree in Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology from University College London, UK, where she delved into the intricate facets of psychological development and psychoanalytic theories. Following her studies in the UK, she pursued further academic and practical expertise by completing a program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Houston Victoria, Texas.
Doris De Jesus Levy (Inmind Care)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belleville, NJ 07109 (Online Only)
Seeking help is not easy and it can be scary! If you are an adult or a parent of a teenager experiencing sadness, stress, worries, excessive crying, impulsive behavior, trouble sleeping/concentrating, anxiety, family/relationship or school/work problems for over four weeks, you may need therapeutic support. We all experience normal levels of stress, but if left unresolved, these behaviors and concerns, can result in significant social-emotional issues.
Seeking help is not easy and it can be scary! If you are an adult or a parent of a teenager experiencing sadness, stress, worries, excessive crying, impulsive behavior, trouble sleeping/concentrating, anxiety, family/relationship or school/work problems for over four weeks, you may need therapeutic support. We all experience normal levels of stress, but if left unresolved, these behaviors and concerns, can result in significant social-emotional issues.
Stepping Stones To Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belleville, NJ 07109 (Online Only)
My ideal client has the desire to not only improve their emotional well being but needs the support to work through some obstacles they might be facing. They can learn to understand how this can effectively improve relationships in their life and overall wellbeing. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or have difficulty managing daily stress. The goal is to develop a space where my clients can feel safe and open to not only express their feelings without being judged but together develop a plan to achieve their goals. Therapy is the stepping stone to get you where you need to be on your journey.
My ideal client has the desire to not only improve their emotional well being but needs the support to work through some obstacles they might be facing. They can learn to understand how this can effectively improve relationships in their life and overall wellbeing. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or have difficulty managing daily stress. The goal is to develop a space where my clients can feel safe and open to not only express their feelings without being judged but together develop a plan to achieve their goals. Therapy is the stepping stone to get you where you need to be on your journey.
Kai Ridoré (Inmindcarenj)
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, NJ 07109 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low-esteem, mood disorders or loss and grief? Getting help can be difficult; congratulations on taking the first step. Psychotherapy can help you improve wellbeing, functioning and confidence.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low-esteem, mood disorders or loss and grief? Getting help can be difficult; congratulations on taking the first step. Psychotherapy can help you improve wellbeing, functioning and confidence.
Wendy Orellana, LPC LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Belleville, NJ 07109 (Online Only)
My mission is to help reduce the stigma of seeking better mental , emotional, spiritual, and physical well being.What you will find in me is a real person connecting to a real person. We are all responsible for our own lives in creating beauty for ourselves and others. I would love to help you in achieving , overcoming, and challenging obstacles that are setting you back in the moment. I will accompany you through the healing process . I respond quickest to email only. I am trauma focused trained I used wholistic and integrative approaches in order to empower your self care.
My mission is to help reduce the stigma of seeking better mental , emotional, spiritual, and physical well being.What you will find in me is a real person connecting to a real person. We are all responsible for our own lives in creating beauty for ourselves and others. I would love to help you in achieving , overcoming, and challenging obstacles that are setting you back in the moment. I will accompany you through the healing process . I respond quickest to email only. I am trauma focused trained I used wholistic and integrative approaches in order to empower your self care.
My name is Abe Goico and I have been a practicing clinician for the past 4 and a half years. I founded Inner Strength to provide an alternative to psychotherapy that provides holistic methods of managing stress and anxiety. I use meditation, sound baths, art and yoga to foster wellness. I work from a strengths based perspective tapping into the power that lies within each individual. We truly believe that "you are the captain of your own ship". I would love the opportunity to guide you on a journey that enables you to live your best life.
My name is Abe Goico and I have been a practicing clinician for the past 4 and a half years. I founded Inner Strength to provide an alternative to psychotherapy that provides holistic methods of managing stress and anxiety. I use meditation, sound baths, art and yoga to foster wellness. I work from a strengths based perspective tapping into the power that lies within each individual. We truly believe that "you are the captain of your own ship". I would love the opportunity to guide you on a journey that enables you to live your best life.
Luisa Spadafino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Belleville, NJ 07109 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples. My intentions are to empower my clients to create positive change in their lives in ways that create movement towards better health, stronger relationships, and greater overall life satisfaction.
I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples. My intentions are to empower my clients to create positive change in their lives in ways that create movement towards better health, stronger relationships, and greater overall life satisfaction.
Ivonne De Pascual
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, NJ 07109
My life mission in counseling is best reflected by my slogan "Inspiring Lives...Healing Hearts." My passion for the counseling profession motivated me to be the founder of the Counseling Care Center. The Center creates a safe and embracing environment that allows clients to explore their problems in a trustful, non-judgmental and empathic counseling relationship. My goal is to help my clients to believe in themselves, overcome self-destructive behavior and gain healthy skills so that they can live their lives in a harmonious, peaceful and productive way.
My life mission in counseling is best reflected by my slogan "Inspiring Lives...Healing Hearts." My passion for the counseling profession motivated me to be the founder of the Counseling Care Center. The Center creates a safe and embracing environment that allows clients to explore their problems in a trustful, non-judgmental and empathic counseling relationship. My goal is to help my clients to believe in themselves, overcome self-destructive behavior and gain healthy skills so that they can live their lives in a harmonious, peaceful and productive way.
More Therapists Nearby
meaning we are qualified to treat individuals, adolescents, couples, and families for all manner of needs and areSome specializations include: Marital and Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ Concerns, Gender Identity, Depression & Anxiety, Trauma, Chronic Illness, Grief Counseling, Couples' Counseling, Immigration and Acculturation Trauma, Sexual Assault, Racial Concerns.
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
meaning we are qualified to treat individuals, adolescents, couples, and families for all manner of needs and areSome specializations include: Marital and Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ Concerns, Gender Identity, Depression & Anxiety, Trauma, Chronic Illness, Grief Counseling, Couples' Counseling, Immigration and Acculturation Trauma, Sexual Assault, Racial Concerns.
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
Pierce Bourget: Adults Couples Teens, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Guided by my experience as a gay & nonbinary person, I assist clients navigating poly relationships, ADHD, recovery & sobriety, relationship issues, & LGBTQIA community issues. I integrate anti-oppressive & anti-racist approaches by actively listening to diverse perspectives & working collaboratively with clients to create an inclusive environment. With teens, I ally closely with parents to develop a plan that works to connect better at home & engage in sustainable change. With adults & couples, I use evidence-based methods to gain insight into your patterns & communicate effectively. Book online with me at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Guided by my experience as a gay & nonbinary person, I assist clients navigating poly relationships, ADHD, recovery & sobriety, relationship issues, & LGBTQIA community issues. I integrate anti-oppressive & anti-racist approaches by actively listening to diverse perspectives & working collaboratively with clients to create an inclusive environment. With teens, I ally closely with parents to develop a plan that works to connect better at home & engage in sustainable change. With adults & couples, I use evidence-based methods to gain insight into your patterns & communicate effectively. Book online with me at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Max Laffend: Couples, Adults, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I am also part of the Queer, I Team at Resolution Counseling Center, which is the only in-network group of affirming providers (that we know of!) in NJ.
As a Queer/ LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I am also part of the Queer, I Team at Resolution Counseling Center, which is the only in-network group of affirming providers (that we know of!) in NJ.
As a Queer/ LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
My approach is especially sensitive to the unique challenges faced by people of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Congratulations on Trusting the Process & taking the leap into the journey towards your best self. Life can often be overwhelming, particularly for those grappling with anxiety, trauma, and racially based challenges. These struggles can manifest in various ways, such as persistent worry, flashbacks, a constant sense of being on edge, and feelings of isolation. It's essential to understand that the healing process is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will work through these pain points, fostering resilience and personal growth every step of the way.
My approach is especially sensitive to the unique challenges faced by people of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Congratulations on Trusting the Process & taking the leap into the journey towards your best self. Life can often be overwhelming, particularly for those grappling with anxiety, trauma, and racially based challenges. These struggles can manifest in various ways, such as persistent worry, flashbacks, a constant sense of being on edge, and feelings of isolation. It's essential to understand that the healing process is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will work through these pain points, fostering resilience and personal growth every step of the way.
Matthew Sidler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Is shame or fear of vulnerability getting in the way of connection or sex? Are you and your partner struggling to be on the same page emotionally or sexually? Despite being hardwired for connection, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and other everyday obstacles tend to get in the way. Struggles related to sexual desire, performance, or physical functioning are so often burdened by shame or embarrassment. As a sex and relationship therapist, I work with clients to develop greater comfort around these topics. While my practice is inclusive of all people, I aim to provide a safe space for LGBTQIA+ clients.
Is shame or fear of vulnerability getting in the way of connection or sex? Are you and your partner struggling to be on the same page emotionally or sexually? Despite being hardwired for connection, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and other everyday obstacles tend to get in the way. Struggles related to sexual desire, performance, or physical functioning are so often burdened by shame or embarrassment. As a sex and relationship therapist, I work with clients to develop greater comfort around these topics. While my practice is inclusive of all people, I aim to provide a safe space for LGBTQIA+ clients.
James Vincent Mahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I have specialized in treatment with gay and lesbian clients for the past 36 years.
Contemporary life causes emotional/ mental conflict and stress. As your therapist, I will assist you in achieving authentic self-knowledge. "Knowledge Is Power". Through mirroring, I will reflect YOU to yourself; that knowledge can empower you in your life to resolve conflicts, mitigate anxieties/ depressive states and enhance/ maximize productive relationships.
With 36 years of clinical practice especially serving the GLBT community, this work has enhanced my ability to be sensitive and insightful into the general human condition.
The curative aspect of treatment is relational. I assist the client in developing a therapeutic alliance with me to promote mental and emotional health.
I have specialized in treatment with gay and lesbian clients for the past 36 years.
Contemporary life causes emotional/ mental conflict and stress. As your therapist, I will assist you in achieving authentic self-knowledge. "Knowledge Is Power". Through mirroring, I will reflect YOU to yourself; that knowledge can empower you in your life to resolve conflicts, mitigate anxieties/ depressive states and enhance/ maximize productive relationships.
With 36 years of clinical practice especially serving the GLBT community, this work has enhanced my ability to be sensitive and insightful into the general human condition.
The curative aspect of treatment is relational. I assist the client in developing a therapeutic alliance with me to promote mental and emotional health.
Izzy Nappa: Adults, Couples, Teens
Counselor, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I specialize in supporting teens, couples, the queer community, and anyone facing anxiety. I draw on Acceptance and Commitment, CBT, and Gottman Method approaches and have many tools for anxiety relief, including mindfulness, deep breathing, and combatting that negative voice in your head.. With teens, I work closely with parents to set goals and also provide parent-only and family sessions for extra support. As a proud LGBTQIA+ member, I’m passionate about guiding queer clients through identity acceptance, family challenges, and transgender journeys. Check if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
I specialize in supporting teens, couples, the queer community, and anyone facing anxiety. I draw on Acceptance and Commitment, CBT, and Gottman Method approaches and have many tools for anxiety relief, including mindfulness, deep breathing, and combatting that negative voice in your head.. With teens, I work closely with parents to set goals and also provide parent-only and family sessions for extra support. As a proud LGBTQIA+ member, I’m passionate about guiding queer clients through identity acceptance, family challenges, and transgender journeys. Check if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
Jose M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I also offer special skills for individuals in need of assistance with gender identification, including but not limited to coming out to family and friends, HIV diagnosis and various other issues confronting the gay and lesbian community.
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
I also offer special skills for individuals in need of assistance with gender identification, including but not limited to coming out to family and friends, HIV diagnosis and various other issues confronting the gay and lesbian community.
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
I help adults who are questioning their relationship with food, alcohol, or drugs and those facing infertility, pregnancy or post-partum challenges. As a queer therapist, I am experienced with and enjoy supporting fellow LGBTQIA+ community members. I work from a relational and trauma-informed perspective and incorporate tools from CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing. Most importantly, though, I am guided by the person sitting in front of me. I will work to understand your unique therapy goals and partner with you on your journey. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I help adults who are questioning their relationship with food, alcohol, or drugs and those facing infertility, pregnancy or post-partum challenges. As a queer therapist, I am experienced with and enjoy supporting fellow LGBTQIA+ community members. I work from a relational and trauma-informed perspective and incorporate tools from CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing. Most importantly, though, I am guided by the person sitting in front of me. I will work to understand your unique therapy goals and partner with you on your journey. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
See more therapy options for Belleville
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Belleville
- Bloomfield
- East Orange
- Glen Ridge
- Harrison
- Kearny
- Lyndhurst
- Montclair
- Newark
- Nutley
- Orange
- Rutherford
- Upper Montclair
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.